NE North Dakota News

The University of North Dakota (UND) is recognizing Black History Month by highlighting pivotal figures and events from its history. UND Today has curated images and stories that shed light on the contributions of Black individuals associated with the university.

On February 21, a Black History Month observance will be held at noon in the Memorial Union Ballroom. The event will feature a conversation between Robert Kraus, Dean of the School of Aerospace Sciences, and Kenyatta Ruffin, a commercial airline pilot and former F-16 fighter pilot in the U.S. Air Force. This event is open to all.

James Hilyard was UND's first student and graduate of color. Despite excelling academically and being active in university organizations, he did not receive his degree during his lifetime but was posthumously awarded one in 2024.

Era Bell Thompson, who attended UND starting in 1925 before transferring to Morningside College, became a pioneering journalist and editor for "Ebony Magazine." She left a lasting legacy at UND, where the former multicultural center bore her name. Her memoir "American Daughter" reflects her experiences growing up as a Black woman in early 20th century North Dakota.

Frederick “Fritz” Pollard Jr., an accomplished athlete at UND, graduated in 1939. He earned an Olympic bronze medal in 1936 and later contributed to education and civil service after World War II. In recognition of his achievements, UND named its primary indoor training facility after him.

Horace “Hoss” Johnson graduated from UND with a degree in history alongside Fritz Pollard Jr., sharing both academic pursuits and athletic endeavors. He went on to become part of the Tuskegee Airmen during World War II.

In 1957, Ronald Davies played a crucial role in desegregating Little Rock Central High School as a federal judge. His rulings were instrumental during this significant period of the American civil rights movement.

A notable moment occurred when Martin Luther King Jr. engaged with UND students via conference call technology during their Christian fellowship meeting in October 1959.

In March 1965, following the Selma to Montgomery marches, approximately 125 members of the UND community rallied for civil rights on campus amidst counter-protests.

Eddie Faye Gates graduated from UND in 1968 with an education degree. She later became known for documenting Black Oklahomans' history and advocating for survivors of the Tulsa Race Massacre through various mediums including books like "They Came Searching."